How Thermal Transfer Technology Works
Thermal transfer technology combines a thermal printhead and a polyester ribbon coated with ink on one side. Heat transfers the ink from the ribbon onto the labels as they pass under the thermal printhead. The thermal printhead is made up of a row of independent tiny resistors mounted on a ceramic support. These resistors are then activated based on the characters to be printed, melting the ink on the ribbon and “transferring” the selected characters to the labels.
Types of Thermal Transfer Coders
There are two types of thermal transfer coders, depending on the application:
- Intermittent mode: Labels advance and then stop. The printhead lowers, moves along the label and ribbon. The printhead prints. The printhead is raised, and returns to the home position, the ribbon advances and the process is repeated.
- Continuous mode: Labels are constantly moving. When triggered, the ribbon accelerates to the label speed, the printhead is lowered and printing begins. At the end of printing, the printhead is raised to the home position and the ribbon stops moving.
Benefits of Markem Imaje SmartDate X40 Thermal Transfer Printer
- New standard 1100 m ribbon reduces changeovers and improves cost per print
- Patented ribbon saving features help to minimize ribbon waste
- Best in industry 18-month standard warranty
- Excellent availability ratio of up to 99.6%* without assistance due to new standard 1100 m ribbon
- IP protection option for harsh environmental conditions and frequent pressurized water cleaning
- IP protection kit for installed SmartDate X40
- Print speeds up to 600 mm/s
- High quality 300 dpi resolution
- Up to 50% reduction in power consumption
- Up to 20% less ribbon waste with new standard ribbon design
Contact Pack Leader USA today to talk about printer options for your labeling system.
